Hanoi (VNA) - Three independent documentary projects have been selected for development into completed films under the “Voices for Tomorrow” competition, jointly organised by the Goethe-Institut Hanoi and the Centre for Assistance and Development of Movie Talents (TPD) under the Vietnam Cinema Association.
At a press conference on April 9, organisers said the competition received 20 submissions covering a wide range of compelling topics. The advisory board shortlisted three standout projects following several rounds of selection, pitching, and interviews.
The selected projects focus on vulnerable communities facing profound social and environmental changes. Each is supported by community groups and non-governmental organisations, enabling filmmakers to explore individual stories while highlighting the broader aspirations of marginalised communities.
Filmmakers Phan Thi Huynh Nhi and Dao Hoang Duy presented “Tam Giang Lagoon”, supported by the Centre for Social Research and Development (CSRD). The project examines the livelihoods of fishing communities grappling with climate change and environmental pollution.
Another project, “Living Independently”, by Nguyen Anh and Nguyen Ho Bao Nghi, follows Tuan, a man with cerebral palsy living in Hanoi. Despite severe physical limitations, he has demonstrated remarkable resilience, choosing to live independently from the age of 24 and support himself through street vending.
The third project, “Loi Nhot” (Hanoi is drenching), by Nong Nhat Quang and Hoang Thao, explores Hanoi's queer community. The documentary portrays a vibrant yet often misunderstood world whose members continue to face social prejudice due to their gender identities and sexual orientations.
Members of the advisory board, including award-winning documentary filmmakers and directors, said the three projects were chosen for their diversity, universal appeal and potential to uncover promising new filmmaking talent.
Ha Le Diem, director of the internationally acclaimed documentary “Children of the Mist”, noted that all three projects are deeply rooted in Vietnamese realities while possessing strong potential to resonate with international audiences. She also praised the filmmakers' close connection and understanding of their subjects.
The Voices for Tomorrow initiative aims not only to discover emerging talent but also to create a dedicated platform for documentary filmmakers, a genre that often receives less attention than feature films in Vietnam.
Through mentorship from filmmakers with multinational production experience and participation in major international film festivals, selected teams will receive guidance on improving production quality, strengthening professional skills and enhancing their competitiveness on the global stage.
Organisers said particular emphasis is placed on sound design, an aspect often overshadowed by visual elements but considered one of the most important criteria in international film competitions.
Mentors will also advise filmmakers on festival strategies, including which competitions to target first to maximise opportunities for international exposure and distribution.
The TPD Director said eight documentary films, including the three projects selected this year and productions from previous editions, are expected to be screened in cinemas and showcased through film festival formats in 2027.
Oliver Brandt, Director of the Goethe-Institut Hanoi, emphasised the significant social impact of documentary filmmaking. He noted that documentaries, particularly short-form productions, can reach wider audiences through film festivals, independent and non-commercial screening venues, schools and community spaces.
Initiatives such as Voices for Tomorrow, he said, can help Vietnamese cinema expand its international presence in a more regular, diverse and professional manner, supporting broader efforts to develop the country's cultural industries in line with Resolution No. 80-NQ/TW./.
